Sixth graders Anika Veerkar, Benicio "Benny" Flores, and Libby Abrams live a short drive from a small lake, but they've never been swimming in it. It's closed off as a "Superfund" site, a mysterious phrase they've never heard elsewhere. When Benny's out-of-town uncle brings him fishing gear as a present, only to find out no one is allowed to fish in the lake, the friends determine their next big question to explore: Why is the lake off-limits? As the friends interview their neighbors and explore their community's history, they'll find that not being able to swim or fish in the lake might actually be a good thing. Anika, Benny, and Libby are neighborhood friends--and known to be relentlessly curious. They're always asking questions, and their interest in sharing the answers has led them to start an online newsletter. Encouraged by their parents, they venture out into the community to investigate the most engaging mysteries.
Maya Chhabra is the author of a middle grade historical novel, Stranger on the Home Front, and a YA verse novel, Chiara in the Dark. Her short stories, poetry, and translations have been published in a variety of venues. Follow her writing updates on Twitter at @MChhabraAuthor. Maya lives in Brooklyn with her wife.
Nathalie Ortega illustrates children's books from all around the world. Her works are published in countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, Spain, and many others. Companies such as Pearson Education, Longman, Oxford University Press, and Harper Collins have her art in picture books, English Language Teaching materials, school books, and more. Nathalie loves working at her home studio with her family and three funny kitties.
